12/30/2025
MAYOR LUNGO-KOEHN: DON’T GAMBLE WITH MEDFORD’S SAFETY
Why would the mayor seek a new ambulance provider after more than 25 years with the current one?
Teamsters Local 25 proudly represents more than 150 Armstrong Ambulance professionals—EMTs, Paramedics, and Chair Car Drivers—serving communities from Medford and Waltham to Arlington, Brighton, Saugus, Stoneham, and Woburn. These are the first responders who deliver lifesaving care during the worst moments of people’s lives. Medford is one of Armstrong’s most deeply served communities, with roughly 50 dedicated workers responding to emergencies day and night.
On December 21, Mayor Lungo-Koehn and the City of Medford informed Armstrong that they would be switching to another provider after more than two decades of uninterrupted service.
“The mayor should not be gambling with public safety,” said Teamsters Local 25 President Tom Mari. “Armstrong Ambulance has provided first class EMS services in Medford for more than 25 years. They have a proven record of professionalism, rapid response, and deep commitment to this community. Replacing a trusted provider without transparency or public input raises serious concerns for residents and first responders alike.”
Armstrong crews work hand in hand with Medford police and fire at every emergency. This year, Armstrong Ambulance averaged a 4 minute, 30 second emergency response time—squarely within the National Fire Protection Association’s recommended 4 to 5 minute EMS/fire response window. Many Armstrong workers live in Medford themselves. They are trusted neighbors, familiar faces, and steady hands in moments of crisis.
“We see people at their most vulnerable moments, and we’re there to help. Over the years, we often see the same individuals and build a real rapport with them. I’d like to think we bring a bit of calm to an otherwise chaotic and frightening scene,” said Bobby Hatzikonstantis, steward with Armstrong Ambulance.
Yet on January 19, a new provider is slated to take over EMS services in Medford—without any public explanation from the mayor and without any opportunity for residents to weigh in.
Armstrong Ambulance is the largest unionized private ambulance provider in Massachusetts. The Teamsters contract guarantees safe staffing levels, rigorous continuing education, and a strong field training program—all of which directly benefit Medford residents. The three Medford ambulances are staffed 24/7 without exception. And during high call periods, Armstrong can immediately deploy additional units from its interfacility division to ensure uninterrupted coverage.
This is what a first-class EMS operation looks like. Medford deserves nothing less.
Armstrong Ambulance Service *Official Page*
